In this section, you can find information and answers to the following questions: 1. 1. What is a Living Trust?The main difference between a mortgage and deed of trust is the number of parties involved with the transaction. Stepbystep guide on how to transfer property to a living trust in California preparing deeds, recording with the county and more. A deed of trust, also called a trust deed, is the functional equivalent of a mortgage. Draft a trust deed and have it notarized so that it is legally binding. Record the deed at the county recorder's office. If you are adding an heir, you could use a living trust or Transfer on Death Deed instead of making them a joint tenant. What are trust deeds? In a deed of trust, the trustee, the beneficiary, and the trustor are all involved.